2026 Subaru BRZ vs. 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2026 Subaru BRZ delivers the classic feel of a rear-wheel-drive sports car with the added power, precision, and everyday versatility Subaru drivers expect. Every BRZ is powered by a 2.4-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. A standard Torsen® limited-slip differential, track-tuned suspension, and quick-ratio steering help give the BRZ responsive handling and a direct connection to the road.
Compared with the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the BRZ delivers more horsepower, more torque, and a larger engine while adding practical features that make it easier to enjoy every day. The BRZ seats up to four passengers and provides a fold-down rear seat for additional cargo flexibility, while the Miata is designed as a two-seat roadster. For sports car shoppers around Lee’s Summit and the Kansas City area who want performance without giving up everyday versatility, the 2026 Subaru BRZ makes a strong case.
Subaru BRZ Power & Capability
The 2026 Subaru BRZ is engineered around the pure driving experience of a lightweight rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. Its 2.4-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, compared with 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque from the Mazda MX-5 Miata’s 2.0-liter engine. That gives the BRZ 47 more horsepower and 33 more lb-ft of torque.
Performance goes beyond engine output. Every BRZ features a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential, Subaru-engineered track-tuned suspension, and quick 13.5:1-ratio steering for precise response. A standard 6-speed manual transmission keeps drivers connected to the experience, while an available 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters provides another option for those who want sports-car performance with added everyday convenience.
2026 Subaru BRZ
Engine: 2.4L Direct-Injection SUBARU BOXER®
Horsepower: 228 hp
Torque: 184 lb-ft
Limited-Slip Differential: Standard Torsen® LSD
Track-Tuned Suspension: Standard on Every Trim
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Engine: 2.0L SKYACTIV®-G 4-Cylinder
Horsepower: 181 hp
Torque: 151 lb-ft
Limited-Slip Differential: Available on Select Manual-Transmission Trims
Performance Suspension Hardware: Available on Select Trims
BRZ Interior & Features
The 2026 Subaru BRZ proves that a dedicated sports car can still offer useful everyday versatility. Its 2+2 seating layout provides room for up to four passengers compared with two in the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The BRZ also offers 6.3 cubic feet of cargo space compared with approximately 4.6 cubic feet in the Miata, while its standard fold-down rear seatback can create additional room when you need to carry longer or larger items.
Comfort and performance-focused technology come together inside the BRZ. Heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control come standard, while a customizable 7-inch digital gauge cluster includes Normal, Sport, and Track display modes along with an integrated G-force meter. An 8-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen provides Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, while standard Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert add extra confidence for everyday driving.
2026 Subaru BRZ
Seating Capacity: Up to 4 Passengers
Cargo Volume: 6.3 cu. ft.
Rear Seat: Standard Fold-Down Rear Seatback
Heated Front Seats: Standard on Every Trim
Climate Control: Standard Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Seating Capacity: 2 Passengers
Cargo Volume: Approximately 4.6 cu. ft.
Rear Seat: Not Available
Heated Front Seats: Available on Higher Trims
Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control Available on Grand Touring
The 2026 Subaru BRZ combines classic rear-wheel-drive sports car performance with added power and everyday versatility. Its 228-horsepower 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine delivers 47 more horsepower and 33 more lb-ft of torque than the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata, while a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential and track-tuned suspension help provide precise, responsive handling. Inside, seating for up to four, more cargo space, a fold-down rear seat, heated front seats, and a customizable digital instrument cluster make the BRZ a sports car you can enjoy beyond the weekend. Explore the 2026 Subaru BRZ at Lee’s Summit Subaru.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata?
The 2026 Subaru BRZ is a strong alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata for drivers who want a rear-wheel-drive sports car with more horsepower, more torque, and additional everyday practicality. The BRZ produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque compared with 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft in the Miata. For sports car shoppers around Lee's Summit and Kansas City, the BRZ offers an engaging driving experience with added passenger and cargo flexibility.
Is the 2026 Subaru BRZ a good daily driver?
Yes. While the 2026 Subaru BRZ is designed for performance, its 2+2 seating layout and fold-down rear seat give it more everyday flexibility than many traditional two-seat sports cars. It also offers 6.3 cubic feet of cargo space, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and smartphone connectivity, making it a practical sports car for daily driving around Lee's Summit and the Kansas City metro.
Is the Subaru BRZ more powerful than the Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Yes. The 2026 Subaru BRZ produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque from its 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine. The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0-liter engine. That gives the BRZ 47 more horsepower and 33 more lb-ft of torque, making it an appealing choice for performance-focused drivers in Lee's Summit and throughout the Kansas City area.
Can you get the 2026 Subaru BRZ with a manual transmission?
Yes. The 2026 Subaru BRZ is available with a 6-speed manual transmission for drivers who want a more engaging sports-car experience. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, standard Torsen® limited-slip differential, track-tuned suspension, and precise steering further contribute to its driver-focused character. For enthusiasts looking for a manual sports car in Lee's Summit or the greater Kansas City area, the BRZ is a compelling option.
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru BRZ or a 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Both deliver lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports-car performance, but they offer different advantages. The 2026 Subaru BRZ provides 228 horsepower, seating for up to four, a fold-down rear seat, and more cargo space, while the Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seat roadster. For Kansas City-area shoppers who want an engaging sports car with additional power and everyday versatility, the BRZ is worth considering.